1989 Ford Tempo GL review from North America
"Cheap and practical"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission rebuilt 85,000 miles.
New alternator twice at 60,000 and 80,000.
Leaks a lot of oil- bad seals.
Transmission leaks from bad seals.
Never stays in alignment.
Water pump replaced at 102,000.
Dashboard keys fall out all missing, and temperature control knob broken.
Wipers stopped working then started again.
Heater fan stopped working then started again (unrelated to wipers).
General comments?
Originally got the car from my grandmother in Florida.
Never expected much from something that costs $8000 new.
Was my first car as a teenager, great for driving to school and work.
Not much power- takes a second to get moving.
Not much room for tall people.
For being 15 years old and having over 100,000 miles still running great.
Recommended Reviews:
  | A mechanic's dream... your worst nightmare!! |
| 1988 - Tempo GL 4 cylinder. 2.3 Liter alright if you do your own work on it |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L 4 cyliner Automatic |
| Performance marks | 2/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 85000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 107000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 18th May, 2004 |